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Resources and Data for COVID-19:
The Animal and Human Community
The spread of coronavirus has caused concern over the health and safety of humans and animals. This page provides a source of reliable information related to COVID-19 and its impact on people and animals.
NOTE: The information below and on the various links are informational only and based on available data; the COVID-19 situation continues to evolve rapidly. Content is subject to frequent updates and revisions.
For information on preparing a pet care plan, go to COVID: Pet Care.
What are coronaviruses?
Coronaviruses (CoV) are a large family of viruses with some affecting animals and some affecting people. Most livestock producers and veterinarians are very familiar with common animal coronaviruses. The majority of coronaviruses stick to their own species. While one species can be infected, another could pass the virus through its body without any effects. Source: MN Board of Animal Health
Also refer to: World Organization for Animal Health.
General Information: Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19)
• For information about COVID-19 specific to Minnesota, go to the Minnesota Department of Health.
• For Executive Orders from MN Governor Walz, go to Executive Orders.
• For real-time tracking of Minnesota COVID-19 cases: Homeland Security Emergency Management — State Emergency Operations Center
• UPDATE: Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):
If You Have Animals
What To Do If You Are Sick
Dispelling Myths about COVID-19 & Pets
Panic often results in the spread of misinformation. Unfortunately, companion animals have become victims of this during the coronavirus pandemic. One piece of damaging misinformation is that pets can transmit COVID-19.
• FACT: The CDC, World Small Animal Veterinary Association, and World Organization for Animal Health state there is no current evidence that pets play a significant role in transmitting COVID-19. Per the Ohio State College of Veterinary Medicine, confirmed cases in pets are extremely rare and the risk of pets developing an illness from COVID is incredibly low. Always look to reliable and reputable organizations for updates about pets and disease transmission.
• STAY ACTIVE & SAFE: Exercise is still an important part of pet health and well-being, but remember to practice social distancing on walks or visits to the park. Many local pet stores are also offering delivery for pet food and supplies.
• GOOD HYGIENE: Always practice good hygiene, including washing pet dishes in hot, soapy water and disinfecting your hands after returning from a walk, to keep you and your pets healthy and safe.
Action: Helping Minnesota’s Animals during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Many animal shelters in Minnesota and across the U.S. were forced to close their doors temporarily ro the public due to the coronavirus pandemic. The animals need us now, more than ever. Other animal welfare and protection organizations, too, need support to continue their efforts to protect animals. Here are a few ways you can help:
• FOSTER: Dogs, cats, and other animal still need rescuing. Contact your local shelter or rescue group to learn about becoming a foster home. Organizations cover the cost of food and animal care, so all you need to do is provide a safe place for an animal or two to stay temporarily.
• ADOPT: Keep animals out of shelters by adopting. Some organizations are even turning to virtual adoption events to help animals find homes.
• SHELTERS: Animal shelters and rescues rely solely on donations to operate and care for animals. Sadly, many local organizations had to cancel large fundraising events due to COVID-19. Help them out by making a monetary donation to your local animal shelter.
• SUPPORT: Community members with pets need your support as well. You can help by supporting organizations like People and Pets Together; they provide pet food and essential supplies to local families.
• DONATE: Other animal welfare and protection organizations, including Animal Folks, are still working hard during these times to fulfill our mission and projects. Cruelty does not stop; please continue to donate.
Animal Rescues & Shelters: Resources
New information about COVID-19 and how to receive animals is being posted daily. Use an abundance of caution — to protect staff and animals. Make sure staff and volunteers practice safety protocols; protocols can be found on links below.
• CDC: Animals and Coronavirus Disease
• CDC: Healthy Pets, Healthy People
• American Veterinary Medical Association and social media images
• Association for Animal Welfare Advancement Blog and Infographics
• University of Wisconsin Shelter Medicine (and UC Davis-Koret)
• American Pets Alive!: Animal Shelter Preparedness Guide
• Ohio State University: COVID-19 and Animals
• Maddie’s Shelter Program: List of COVID-19 Information
• Association of Shelter Veterinarians
• Animal Sheltering
• HSUS: COVID-19 FAQ
• ASPCA: Keeping Pets Safe During COVID-19
• Best Friends Animal Society: COVID-19 resources
• NARSC: Emergency Animal Sheltering During Coronavirus Disease Pandemic
For animal shelters and rescues, now is the time to reach out to supporters and ask for help. Be transparent about your current needs, as well as steps you’re taking to keep people and animals safe. Utilize your social media channels to request donations and promote animals needing rescue, foster, or adoption. Hearts Speak compiled a list of useful tips for shelter communications during the pandemic.
Resources: Horses, livestock, and other animals
For assistance or questions about horses, livestock, and other large animals, contact species-related associations and organizations for guidance.
Specifically, the MN Department of Agriculture has created a helpline for farmers and assistance is also being provided to farm operations by the Rural Finance Authority-Disaster Recovery Loan Program.
All livestock producers have standard biosecurity procedures in place for the day-to-day operation of their farm (see Board of Animal Health).
For horse caregivers:
• THE HORSE: COVID-19 Resources for Horse Owners
• MINNESOTA: Horse care during COVID-19
Animal Nonprofits: Resources and Financial Assistance
Nonprofits rely on donations for operation and often struggle during tough economic times. Below are links for resources and financial relief programs:
• MCN: The Minnesota Council of Nonprofits has a comprehensive resource page covering topics such as business operations, fundraising, and self care.
• SBA: Small businesses and nonprofits can apply for low-interest SBA loans to help with debts, payroll, and bills during a disaster.
Veterinary Clinics: Resources
Most Minnesota veterinary clinics have established protocols to keep their clients and pets safe. This includes restricting access to waiting rooms and offering curbside delivery of medication and prescription foods. As with any business, the effects of COVID-19 and social distancing can be stressful for veterinary practices. Resources:
• The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) compiled a comprehensive COVID-19 Resource Page for veterinary clinics.
• Veterinary Medical Association Executives (VMAE) also has several COVID-19 Resources for clinics and staff.
• Read this Message about COVID-19 and access pandemic training and resources from the Minnesota Veterinary Medical Association (MVMA).
• Learn how to Establish COVID-19 Protocols for your veterinary clinic from the University of Guelph.
• Refer to the MN Board of Veterinary Medicine for advisory statements.
Law Enforcement and Animal Control: Resources
Animal cruelty is still an issue, even during times such as this. Below are resources related to law enforcement on COVID-19.
• Animal Folks: COVID-19 Resources for Law Enforcement
• Animal Folks: COVID-19 Ressources for Law Enforcement - one page
• CDC: Guidance for Law Enforcement Personnel
• The International Association of Chiefs of Police
• The National Sheriffs' Association
• National Animal Control Association
Additional Resources: COVID-19
• World Health Organization, includes multiple downloads
• U.S. Food & Drug Administration: Questions for COVID-19
• OIE: World Organisation For Animal Health
NOTE: Any links to third party websites implies no endorsement or affiliation.
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